Cirrhosis Of The Liver: Symptoms And Causes

Fatty Liver

Individuals who consume larger than average amounts of alcohol may develop a condition known as fatty liver disease, which occurs when the liver metabolizes alcohol into water and carbon dioxide. As soon as heavy drinking stops, the condition goes away. It is worth noting, however, heavy drinking is not the only cause of fatty liver disease, and other causes include diabetes as well as obesity. In the case of obesity, losing excess weight can result in the disappearance of fatty liver disease.

Approximately ten percent of heavy drinkers who have fatty liver disease will develop cirrhosis, which is the third stage of alcoholic liver disease. Up to thirty percent of heavy drinkers will develop hepatitis, a progressive phase of liver damage.

Continue reading to learn how genetics can come into play with cirrhosis.